The Cook Inlet mudflats have been the scene of a few well-known incidents in Alaska’s history.

From helicopter’s attempting to rescue people via rope, to a newly wed gold miner who drowned as the tide came in, these true events have gained urban legend status locally. Due to the angular grains of glacial silt, the mud in the inlet behaves like quicksand. This means once disturbed, say by someone sinking in it, the grains quickly interlock and trap the unsuspecting. Few deaths have happened in recent years thanks to specialized equipment used by rescuers. This equipment includes half wet suits and portable pumps to wash away mud. Tidal channels, like those at the Turnagain and Knik arms, are the most dangerous with mud layered feet deep. Regardless of danger, many people regularly cross the mudflats to Fire Island from Anchorage between high tides.

As for us, we’re venturing out to search for mineral concretions, known locally as spirit stones.

The mud in our area tends not to be deeper than a few inches to a foot. Just deep enough to trap vehicle tires and lose boots (Amazon link) in, but not deep enough to get unmanageably stuck. We’ve seen, and rescued, plenty of trucks stuck in this mud. And we’ve been rescued ourselves a time or two!

Our area also has plenty of large rock deposits to use as walkways for those willing to risk getting a little dirty while they search for agates and spirit stones. There are many hours between high tides to spend exploring these dangerous but beautiful areas. And even those of us who have been doing this for years have had the tide sneak up on us. Just take a look at what happened the last time we went out:

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel!

Disclaimer: I do not suggest people travel in the mudflats, especially without a local guide. Proper knowledge of location, tide tables, bore tides, water temperature and emergency services are necessary in the event of someone becoming stuck. Lack of this knowledge has led to several deaths.